Principal Steve Wadsworth said the $300,000 track offered a landscape of opportunity for the town’s youth.
‘‘Four months ago, this was just a patch of grass. Today it’s a launchpad for new adventures.’’
The track’s concept was initially introduced to the school’s leadership three years ago by pupils who had a vision for the project.
‘‘Our students didn’t just wait for the grown-ups to build it. They took the lead.’’
Pupils followed up on their vision with further research and scale models.
The track had been named Lowe Field, after its benefactor and ex-pupil Gordon Lowe.
‘‘Gordon wanted to give back to the place that helped shape him. His gift provided us with a rare opportunity — the chance to dream big.’’
Mr Wadsworth said the pump track was the completed work of community support and student voice in action.
‘‘This isn’t just a track. It’s a testament to what happens when we listen to our children.’’
Mr Goodall said the track was an incredible asset for the school and township.
‘‘Winton School has done a fantastic job creating a facility that caters to riders of all ages and skill levels.
‘‘In my opinion, it’s the best pump track I’ve ridden in Southland and a serious contender for the best in the South Island.’’
‘‘It’s also incredibly encouraging to see a project like this championed by young people and then supported through to completion by adults in the community.
‘‘Growing up, we had nothing like this available — we were sneaking into the woods to build our own jumps and tracks just to experience this kind of riding.
‘‘Today’s kids are incredibly lucky to have access to a facility of this quality right in their own town.’’
